Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise: The Ultimate Guide to A Perfect Night in Dubai Marina
Two Hours of Cruising, Buffet Dining and Tanoura Entertainment in the Heart of Dubai Marina
This desert metropolis is celebrated globally for its towering architecture, but some of the finest views of the emirate come from the sea rather than a rooftop. A traditional Marina Cruise Dinner delivers precisely this viewpoint — a gentle two-hour voyage around the glittering Dubai Marina canal, complete with a full buffet dinner along with live shows and music.
What makes it even better is how affordable it is. Packages begin at AED 60 per person, which makes this arguably the best-value evening in the entire emirate.
What Exactly Is a Dhow Cruise in Dubai Marina?
The dhow is a traditional wooden boat used for generations along this coastline for fishing, pearling and commerce. In modern Dubai, these boats have been thoughtfully upgraded into floating restaurants with air-conditioned lower decks along with open-air upper decks.
Compared with a traditional Creek sailing, the Marina sailing sails you through the city's newest district: skyscrapers rising on both banks, the sweep of the Ain Dubai observation wheel, the vibrant JBR, along with the whole skyline mirrored in the water.
Choosing the Right Package
There are four main packages — the right one depends on how special the night needs to be.
Marina Dhow Cruise Dinner – from AED 60
This remains the crowd favourite. The package covers a full two-hour sail, a four-star buffet spread, fresh chicken barbecue, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, free-flowing soft drinks and mineral water, live music, plus an authentic Tanoura dance show. Guests may choose either on the AC lower deck or the open-air upper deck.
Luxury Marina Cruise Dubai – from AED 70
For a little more buys you a more premium feel. Everything from the standard package is included, alongside improved seating throughout, a longer entertainment programme and a a spectacular Tanoura dance show.
Marina Glass and Fiber Cruise – only AED 80
Ideal for those wanting unobstructed sightlines, this modern vessel is hard to beat. The sailing runs from 8 PM to 10:45 PM, with the buffet dinner and BBQ, free-flowing soft drinks, separate toilets for men and women plus background music and entertainment.
Premium VIP Marina Cruise – just AED 150 instead of AED 190
The premium tier. It comes with a red-carpet reception at boarding, a 5-star international buffet, a beautifully decorated Arabic-style wooden dhow, a live Tanoura performance by a professional artist, an air-conditioned lower deck and open-air upper deck, plus landmark views of Ain Dubai, JBR and the full Marina skyline. Boarding is from Dubai Marina Harbour.
What's on the Menu
The buffet is far from an afterthought. Guests can help themselves to a mix of continental, Arabic and Asian dishes, hot mains, a salad and mezze counter, barbecue and rice dishes, followed by sweet dishes to finish. Chicken barbecue is grilled fresh onboard, and vegetarian guests are properly catered for rather than given a token side dish. Unlimited soft drinks and bottled water are included for the full two hours.
The Live Shows
The evening would not be the same without the Tanoura. This whirling folk dance has roots in Egyptian and Sufi tradition, and the performance is performed by a professional artist wearing an illuminated, colourful skirt that lights up the deck. Beyond the Tanoura, you will hear music and entertainment throughout for the duration of the cruise.
The Route and the Views
As the dhow glides through the canal, you will see the illuminated towers lining the canal, the striking twisted tower, the buzzing JBR waterfront, the glowing Ain Dubai wheel, the busy Marina Walk, and even distant views towards Palm Jumeirah. Photographers should head to the best spot, especially at blue hour.
Special Occasions Onboard
This experience is an excellent setting for birthdays, anniversary dinners, family gatherings, romantic surprises and company events and team outings. Birthday setups are available on request, and business groups receive special group rates and customised packages when booking for teams.
Practical Information
Boarding usually begins at 7:45 PM, and cruising takes place between 8:30 PM and 10:30 PM. Arrive a little early to get a good spot on the upper deck. Comfortable smart-casual clothing works best, and bring something light for the breeze because the wind picks up on the water. Children are welcome, and in fact kids are priced at the same AED 60.
Combine Your Cruise With Other Tours
Consider adding a desert safari from AED 90, which includes 4x4 dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, a BBQ buffet dinner along with live shows. Further options include a Dubai City Tour from AED 100, Abu Dhabi City Tours from AED 220, the Burj Khalifa Observation Deck from AED 180, a Hatta Mountains Tour from AED 180, jet ski and water sports from AED 200, deep sea fishing from AED 250 as well as private yacht charter from AED 500 per hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's included in the Marina Dhow Cruise Dinner?
120 minutes on the water, an international buffet dinner, chicken BBQ, free soft drinks and water, the Tanoura performance, live music and stunning Dubai Marina views.
How much does it cost?
AED 60 per adult and AED 60 per child, covering meals, entertainment and the full cruise.
When does boarding begin?
Boarding is at 7:45 PM, and the cruise runs 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM every day.
How to Book
Places book out fast, particularly during peak season, so advance booking is advised. Our team is available 24/7 to help you choose the right package.
Ring +971 56 click here 1277925 or reach us on WhatsApp on +971 50 9912456 to reserve your seats. Visit www.marinacruisedinner.com for full details and the latest offers.
